I have, literally, thousands of photos and thousands of memories, indelible memories of people, places, and experiences that, until six years ago, I never dreamed would be my life here in Italy.
Over the past years, I have shared updates each anniversary of my arrival here in Florence – but this year is especially special…at least it is for me. The five year benchmark almost seems like a dream – even though, it was never really my dream to live in Italy.
It was never an impetuous or romantic decision. I wasn’t running from or toward anything or anyone. I just knew that it was time. It was time to write a new chapter – maybe it would be a short chapter but, whatever it would be, I had to try.
The quote that changed everything…
“A year from now, you will wish you had started today.”
Karen Lamb
I know a lot of people talk about “living the dream in Italy” and comment that I am living mine but, in fact, rather than a dream, it became a goal and something I wanted to try. How would it feel to come and stay for an extended period of time – not just visit (as I had many, many times over the years) but to live here? My only regret would be not trying and I can honestly say that, five years later, I have absolutely no regrets.
Initially there were definitely unforeseen delays (i.e., COVID!), but never anything that would or could prevent my from my ultimate decision – and as it turned out, also unforeseen, doors opened.
Of course, there have been challenges and moments of doubt. That is also a part of any change – stepping into unknown territory (and living vs. visiting a place involves a lot of “unknowns”!). Has it always been la dolce vita as some imagine? Of course not! And I won’t even go into the many difficult choices and decisions involved in letting go of one way of life for another…the big learning curves, surprises, and humbling experiences but, underneath all of that has been a commitment to stay.
Today, as I reflect on the past five years and scroll through those thousands and thousands of photos, and every time I walk out my door and in five minutes my view is of the magnificent skyline of magnificent Florence…I still have to pinch myself!
♥ I celebrated Year #5 here with lovely friends who have made living here even more extraordinary…but toasting to ALL of you, near and far, who have believed in and supported me over these years…who have had my back! ♥
♥I cherish your friendships more than words can say! Grazie di cuore!♥
♥ Friends near and dear…through the years – so many wonderful memories of fun & friendship… Toni & Jodi, Francesca & Federico, Michela & Maria, Paola & Debora♥
♥ Friends I miss & love to visit in my home state California…(2024 on left, 2025 on right!) ♥
Please indulge me as I reminisce!
“You don’t remember the days, you remember the moments.”
Cesare Pavese
♦ October 13, 2020: After months of packing, purging, planning, selling, donating, storing…I left a practically deserted Los Angeles International Airport and via Amsterdam… on October 14, arrived and was welcomed to Florence!
♦ October 14, 2020: Arriving and settling in to my “new place” at “Your Place in Florence”!
♦ My Story in “Italy Magazine”!
♦ Year One Anniversary – 2021: Challenges, lessons, so much to learn…and so much beauty! My Year in Italy: What I Learned (So Far!)
♦ Year Two Anniversary – 2022: An homage to my lovely neighborhood (“rione”) San Niccolo! A Love Letter & Heartfelt Gratitude to My San Niccolo Community…
♦ Year Three Anniversary – 2023: Reflecting. Reminded of my “why” & the lessons. No regrets! Reflecting on Three (Count Them!)…Three Years in Italy!
♦ Year Four Anniversary – 2024: The delightful crazy quilt of my new chapter continues! Four Years and Counting! Your “Boots on the Ground in the Boot” is Still Here!
♥ And through the years…welcoming wonderful lovely YOU!
Oh my! What a pleasure and privilege to welcome so many of YOU to Florence and to Italy! Please come back soon!!!
♦What’s next?
Yes, I am still here! Yes, I plan to stay and to continue immersing in my passion; the history, culture, lifestyle and people of this place that I love…and continue to share with YOU!
“Casa dolce casa!” (Home Sweet Home!)
And, yes, I am still your “Boots on the Ground in the Boot” helping clients (you?) to plan their dream vacation to Italy.
4 thoughts on ““Dammi Cinque!” (Give Me Five!) Five!?! Yes, FIVE Years in Florence…and Counting! ♥”
Victoria,
Congratulations on the 5 Year Anniversary of your now forever life in Italy! We remember when you visited us here in Northern California as you were ready to experience life in Italy for a 6 month trial period which has evolved into a permanent home in Florence, actually we are not surprised!
Enjoy, live life to its fullest and stay in touch, we hope to see you there once again!
Dale & Michelle
Fair Oaks, Calif.
Grazie Dale &B Michelle!
Always so very lovely to hear from you! Your comments and friendship are appreciated!
Loved getting to know both of you during that visit (5 years ago??) and during your trips to Itally – come back soooon!
Grazie di cuore & hugs,
V.
Wow! Seems not that long ago! Living your best life I think. To think that you actually made such a big move…amazing!
Phyllis & Joe,
Wow is right! Five years? Time does indeed fly and so much happened before and since – who knew?? Love that we connected in Bologna all those years ago and again here in Florence a few years ago. You’ve been a true blue support and I appreciate it VERY much!
Come back soon – Italy is still marvelous!
Grazie di cuore & hugs to both of you,
V.
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